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Collapse Quote by Michael Leunig

“The creative act is also in a small way a suffering act - we start out with our ego, this hope of making this thing whatever it be, but so often it eludes us and it collapses and we kind of regress into this mental suffering, we can't find what we're looking for.” quote by Michael Leunig
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“The creative act is also in a small way a suffering act - we start out with our ego, this hope of making this thing whatever it be, but so often it eludes us and it collapses and we kind of regress into this mental suffering, we can't find what we're looking for.”

Michael Leunig

About This Quote

Source Interview: Michael Leunig, 2021

Creative work often begins with ego‑driven expectations that cause frustration when outcomes differ, leading to mental suffering.

In simple terms: Creative effort can cause suffering due to ego expectations.

Key Takeaway

Accept uncertainty and detach ego from outcomes.

Themes

creativity ego frustration growth

Mood

reflective inspirational

Type

philosophical motivational

When to use this quote

  • writing
  • painting
  • design
  • entrepreneurship
  • personal projects

Key Concepts

psychology mindfulness artistic process

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you separate ego from creative intent?
  • What practices help you stay present during creative blocks?
A Different Perspective

Ego can stifle creativity if not managed.

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